DISTANCE BETWEEN POINTS/NODES

This function enables the user to measure the distance (in mm) between two points/nodes, or a point/node and line or surface. The program display a dialog box as shown in Figure 13.2.1 for the user to select the measuring type.

Figure 13.2.1  Measuring Type

TO POINT/NODE

Measure the distance between two points/nodes. Once this function is selected, the program pops up a dialog box for the user to select two points/nodes on the screen by cursor and measure the distance between them. The user can also define two points/nodes by entering their coordinates. The program will display the measurement result on the screen and simultaneously display the DISTANCE, DX, DY and DZ values in the message prompt window.

 

DISTANCE=185.465, DX=157.975, DY=97.165, DZ=0.000

TO LINE

Measure the shortest distance from point/node to line. Once this function is selected, the program prompts the user to select a point/node. The user can select point/node by mouse cursor or by entering the coordinates, and then select a line on the screen. The program will prompt the user for the shortest distance from this point/node to the line:

 

DISTANCE=80.728, DX=69.490, DY=40.977, DZ=-3.000

 

Simultaneously, the points which are close to the selected point/node on line are highlighted on the screen. The program pops up an eta/DYNAFORM Question dialog box as shown inFigure 13.2.2 to determine whether to create a node at the shortest distance. The user can select YES to create a node or select NO to continue the measurement.

Figure 13.2.2  eta/DYNAFORM Question dialog box

TO SURFACE

Measure the shortest distance from point/node to surface. Once this function is selected, the program prompts the user to select a point/node. The user can select point/node by mouse cursor or by entering the coordinates. Then select a surface on the screen. The program will prompt the user for the shortest distance from this point/node to the surface:

 

DISTANCE=28.193, DX=24.824, DY=13.327, DZ=-1.000

 

Simultaneously, the points which are close to the selected point/node on surface are highlighted on the screen. The program pops up an eta/DYNAFORM Question dialog box as shown in Figure 13.2.2 to determine whether to create a node at the shortest distance. The user can select YES to create a node or select NO to continue the measurement.